Ciao Milano - I'm Here to Stay

I arrived in Italy a little over two weeks ago, and as ludicrous as it sounds, I am already yearning for more time here (and considering the logistics of moving abroad permanently). The ten day point marked the longest period of time I have spent in Europe, and the realization that I am more student and resident than tourist has begun to resonate. It is now hard to imagine what my early expectations of Milan were; now the word “Milan” only conjures thoughts of streets that never sleep, cobblestone walkways, glowing restaurant after restaurant, and music and laughter spilling from bars and clubs. This past weekend I traveled to Lake Como near the border of Switzerland, as well as Venice and Verona. All three were beautiful cities in their own distinctive rights, but on the train ride back to Milan I found myself thinking with peace, I am happy to come home. My first 17 days here I have been most struck by the array of architecture, color, richness and variety of food, and contrast between old history and history being made side by side. Below are pictures of my adventures in Milan, Lake Como, Venezia, Burano, Murano, and Verona; I cannot wait to see what other beautiful opportunities lie ahead.